Springtime has arrived! In many communities, this means after-school soccer or baseball practice, bike rides until dusk, and the excitement of warmer, drier weather. Spring also means it’s officially testing season in schools across Oregon—a time that can bring a mix of excitement and pressure for educators and students alike.
Educators play such an important role in shaping the classroom experience during this time. I encourage you to reinforce a sense of community through simple group mindfulness practices, acknowledging effort and growth as the true measure of success, and normalizing productive struggle. Harness the power of collective community: post photos of community members holding signs of support, ask your school family to cheer from the sidelines, and encourage families and loved ones to write letters of motivation and encouragement.
A culture grounded in support, empathy, and celebration can shift the narrative from pressure to possibility.
Sending love and warmest regards to every educator across Oregon as you lean into celebrating the growth of every student in your care.
Warmly,
Erin Helgren
Rural Remote Coach
Children’s Institute